A celebrated Bangladeshi restaurant located in Aldergate has claimed the top honour of Restaurant of the Year for the West Midlands at a major national awards ceremony.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The prestigious event, which marked the 65th anniversary of the Bangladesh Caterers Association (BCA), took place at the Park Plaza hotel in Westminster, London on Sunday, 9 November. Jalali's, situated in the Old Victoria Arcade, was one of thirteen regional restaurants from across the UK to be honoured that evening.
The glittering ceremony attracted a host of prominent figures, including MPs Sir Stephen Timms, Seema Malhotra, Mike Reader, and Kevin Bonavia. The event was presented by stand-up comedian Maisie Adam and Talk TV's Ian Collins, and even received messages of good wishes from King Charles III and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Pride and Recognition for Aldergate
Owner Mohammed Johirul Islam Shiraj expressed his delight at the achievement. He stated the team was "so proud to have won this award against some of the region’s greatest curry houses" and deeply honoured to be recognised by the BCA.
This victory places Jalali's at the forefront of the West Midlands' culinary scene, highlighting its exceptional quality and service within the competitive restaurant industry.
Charting the Future of British Curry Culture
Atik Rahman, the BCA Awards Convenor, hailed the event as a "resounding success," showcasing outstanding industry talent and celebrating the progress of British curry culture over the past 65 years. He noted the growing appreciation for Bangladeshi cuisine throughout the UK.
BCA President Oli Khan emphasised that Bangladeshi curry is part and parcel of modern British life. He praised the incredible talent within the sector and confirmed the association's commitment to innovation, ensuring the next 65 years are even more successful. The BCA, established in 1960, now represents a staggering 12,000 restaurateurs across the country.
